M.A. Church's Blog, page 85

Fangs and Fur is live at Amazon/KU

Buy/KU link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BGRJR4L
Book #2 in the Heart of a Jaguar series. (Book #1 is Paws and Claws) 
Blurb:

What lengths will a corrupt Alpha go to get what he wants?

Beaten, broken, and left in agony by his Alpha, jaguar shifter Delta Bert Morris is nothing but a pawn Alpha Hogan uses to blackmail Bert’s mate. Helpless and terrified, Bert doesn’t see a way out of the situation Hogan has created. He fears his mate will give into Hogan’s demands.

What will a delta sacrifice for his mate?

After seeing the video of Bert’s torture, Delta Alvin Hall is desperate to save him. Following Hogan’s commands, he tries to kidnap his Alpha’s mate, forfeiting his honor in the process. He fails spectacularly. But instead of killing him outright for his betrayal, his Alpha involves the Shifter Council to help rescue Bert.

What will the cost be?

Things go horribly wrong, and the price Bert pays is horrifying. Losing control of his jaguar, Bert shifts and takes off. When animal instinct suppresses the human spirit, the shifter often loses himself.

A jamboree destroyed by an Alphas greed, a shifter lost in his animal, and another shifter who sacrificed everything. Can Alvin and Bert find their way back to one another? And if they can, what kind of future could they possibly have together?

*Trigger Warning: Contains some scenes of violent content




Chapter One

Pain exploded along the side of Bert’s face. He dropped to his knees, curling into a ball in a useless attempt to protect his head.Dun, one of Alpha Hogan’s betas, paced around him, laughing softly. The sound chilled him. Even though shifters ran hot, lately all Bert felt was a seeping coldness. Being stripped of his shirt didn’t help—not that it was much more than a rag. He fought not to whimper, but the agony from the relentless beatings were taking a toll on his body. He desperately needed to shift to heal his wounds, but he couldn’t because Alpha Hogan had commanded him not to, the ruthless son of a bitch. “Pathetic.” Alpha Hogan’s voice splashed against Bert like sewage, hot and nasty, and he recoiled. More pain flared through his body from the movement. He sucked in a breath and promptly started coughing. Bert tried to open his eyes, but one was already swollen shut. Hastily he swiped at the blood dripping into the other and focused on his Alpha. Goddess, how he hated that man and his betas. “I always knew you were weak, but this is beyond ridiculous.” Hogan leaned back in the rickety wooden chair, a curl of smoke rising above his head. He puffed on the stogie once more and blew the filthy-smelling smoke in Bert’s direction.Gagging, Bert braced a hand on the floor and tried to force himself into a sitting position. Dun calmly strode in front of him and stomped on his hand. Something cracked. Bert yelled, collapsing once again, cradling his hand. Scared to see the damage but unable not to look, he glanced at it. Oh fuck. One finger was bent awkwardly, and he moaned. His hands were how he made a living. If he couldn’t work, then what?Dun snickered. Slowly Bert pushed himself up again. Damned if he’d lay curled up at his Alpha’s feet, whimpering. “Alpha—”“Shut up!” Dun viciously kicked him in the ribs with his steel-toe boot.Bert howled, wrapping his arms around his body. Black spots danced before his one working eye as a rib broke. Panting from the hot, stabbing torment, he lifted his head and glared at his Alpha. That earned him a kick to the back from the other beta, Wheaton.Bert fell to the ground, his body screaming. He seriously began to wonder if they planned on killing him. There was only so much even he could take, especially as he was a delta and two betas were beating him. Being unable to shift didn’t help. Bert spit blood on the shack’s dirt floor. “It’s really too bad your mate is being so stubborn.” Alpha Hogan sighed. “Makes you wonder just how much he cares about you, doesn’t it?”The slimy bastard.Alvin’s care, or lack thereof, had nothing to do with it.Bert glanced at his Alpha. The maniacal gleam in Hogan’s eyes terrified him down to his toes. Alpha Hogan was insane, greedy, and frantic for money to save his failing jamboree. “Please, please allow me to shift,” Bert begged from the floor, tossing his pride out the window. He was having trouble breathing. What if that broken rib had punctured a lung?“Unfortunately we’re not quite finished.” Alpha Hogan stood, then nodded at the two betas. “As I said, Alvin is still resisting me. I informed him of what I required—nicely, I might add—but maybe this will help him understand how serious I am.”Wheaton grabbed Bert. Hogan’s words terrified him, and Bert fought, not that it did any good. Wheaton slammed him into the chair Alpha Hogan just vacated and held him down. Out of the corner of his good eye, Bert saw Dun walk to a corner of the shack and pick up a coil of rope. The sadistic smile on Dun’s face damn near stopped Bert’s heart. He struggled in Wheaton’s hold, but the pain and being half-starved had weakened him. Even though he knew it would do no good, he debated shouting for help. No one dared to disturb Alpha Hogan and his betas when they were in this horrible little hovel. They all knew what went on in here.“No!” Bert screamed, fighting harder against Wheaton. “I told you everything.” He hadn’t wanted to, but they literally beat the information out of him.“Indeed you have.” Alpha Hogan glanced over to the scarred table set off to the side. “That thing still recording?”“Yes, Alpha,” Dun answered as he approached Bert. “We have video of this.”“Good.”“What?” Horrified, Bert followed Alpha Hogan’s gaze. There on the table was an old tablet that had been propped up. They taped my beating? “Should make for interesting viewing, don’t you think, Bert? Maybe this will convince Alvin,” Alpha Hogan said.Panic flooded Bert at the implication. “Oh goddess, no! You can’t mean to show Alvin that video! You bastard! Do you know what that’ll do to him?”“Get his attention, I’m hoping. I’m sure Delta Alvin will appreciate the seriousness of the situation after viewing it.” Alpha Hogan laughed with Dun, ignoring Bert’s agonized look. “But….” Alpha Hogan glanced at Bert and flashed a tight-lipped smiled. “Just in case he doesn’t fully grasp it, we’re going to give your mate all the—shall we say—motivationhe needs.”Heart pounding in terror, Bert fought viciously, but his body had nothing left to give. Wheaton jerked his arms behind him, and Bert’s head spun from the pain. Dun wound the rope around his chest and through the open back of the chair until he was securely tied. “Make sure he screams. Loudly too.” Indifferent, Alpha Hogan studied Bert. “Delta Alvin needs to understand exactly who he’s dealing with.”The first kick from Dun’s steel-toe boot to his right knee robbed Bert of breath. Agony exploded, and he couldn’t think for the torment bleeding through his veins. The pain was unlike anything he’d ever experienced. Jabbing sharp knives into it would’ve felt better. His body shuddered. Even though his hands were tied behind his back, they strained to reach forward to protect his knee. The roughness of the rope bit into the tender skin on his wrists as he thrashed. Gods, they’d tied his hands so tight that they were already going numb.Finally his lungs unlocked, and he fought not to scream. He wouldn’t give the bastards the pleasure. He damn sure wouldn’t contribute to the horror Alvin would go through when he saw the video of Bert being beaten.“I’m not hearing anything, boys,” Alpha Hogan drawled.Wheaton punched Bert in the side of the head, and Bert’s head jerked from the impact, his vision blurring. Dun kicked Bert again—to the same kneecap. Tears ran down Bert’s face, but he growled instead of crying out, still refusing to scream for Alpha Hogan. Fuck if he’d give that insane bastard what he wanted.But by the tenth kick, his kneecap shattered. Bert started screaming.

Tuesday Teaser - Fangs and Fur

Doing 2nd edits on this today! Won't be long now!



Chapter ThreeRun! Muscles bunched. Heart pounded.Escape! The pain. The agony.Hide! Unknown hands touched him and fear spiked. No, not again. Never again would the big cat allow such pain. What little human rationale he managed to retain after shifting fled. Only animal instinct remained. Turning his head, he snapped at whoever hovered behind him. Get out! Nothing made sense but the need to flee the pain, the horror. Urgent words filled the air around him, their meaning lost, and that added to his fear. Light filtered through the nearby hole in the shack, beckoning him.There! Go!He sprang across the room and exploded through the opening, needing to get away. Jerking his head to the left and the right, he scanned the surrounding area, heart racing. Footsteps pounded behind him as shouts filled the air. Terror exploded in his mind, and he whimpered. No, no, no! He’d die if he went back into that room. He didn’t know how he knew that; he just did.Snarling, he lurched forward, heading toward the thick cover of the forest. He passed a body, and recognition teased his mind, but he never slowed. The acidic scent of anger assailed him, along with the tinny aroma of fear and the sour odor of confusion. The stench burned his nose, ratcheting up his anxiety. He shivered as he bumbled along, nearly knocking himself off his paws. At least the trailing footsteps and shouts had drifted off.Emptiness spread through him. He was unanchored. Adrift. The sun beating down on his back failed to warm him as coldness set in. His vision wavered, and he shook his head frantically. So tired. So weak. Hide!He stormed toward the forest, seeking escape within the comfort of the trees. Branches snapped, some whipping against his body as he crashed through the underbrush. The small flickers of pain barely registered. Birds squawked above him, taking off in a mad flight of feathers. Small prey scrambled out of his way. Again his vision wavered. Something is wrong. Sucking air, he continued to lope along, trying to outdistance the horror he left behind. Eventually the sweet scent of water caught his attention, and he veered toward it. Hunger unlike any he’d ever known rose up, demanding his attention, but his thirst was greater. Eating would have to wait. Stumbling to a stop, he crouched at the tree line, scanning the area, looking for threats. Can’t fight. Not right now. Something’s wrong.Satisfied nothing there was interested in hurting him, he slunk forward, ears twitching as he listened for any sound that didn’t belong. Step by hesitant step, he prowled to the water’s edge. Still nothing triggered his instinct to flee, so he drank desperately.After he quenched his thirst, the urge to scout out a spot away from the sun’s incessant rays nearly overwhelmed him, but he ignored it. He wasn’t safe yet. Safe from what, he didn’t know, only that he needed to be farther away. A faint voice whispered through his mind that this was the wrong course of action, but the animal side of him stomped it down. Restlessly, the big cat paced near the water’s edge, shaking his massive head as human and animal battled mentally.Fuck humans and their materialistic, mercenary needs. All they did was plot and wreak destruction. The human side of him resisted, and the cat roared in anger.Fuck human mentality. They hurt him. Used him. Broke him and left him to suffer. Why? He couldn’t remember and didn’t care. The animal side of him growled dangerously. No more. They were done with that life whether the human agreed or not. That side melted away under the big cat’s fury. Human rationale and consciousness took a back seat to animal instinct. The cat grabbed control. He needed to be away from here, so away he would go. But first, his hunger needed to be appeased. He needed to hunt, but…. Turning his head slightly, he snarled at one of his back limbs. Damaged. Not right. Bringing down deer was out of the question, so he returned to the water to hunt easier prey.After a turtle or two, and a nest of eggs he found, energy filled him. Better. Much better.He set off, weaving none too gracefully through the trees. The sun lazily moved across the sky as he tottered along. Miles passed. His body ached, but he refused to stop. Like leaves on a breeze, thoughts floated through his mind, but he ruthlessly shoved them aside. The drive to put as much distance between him and the horror he left kept him moving.Twilight marched across the land, and he searched for a place to bed down. Bypassing several trees, he continued until he finally found one close to the slow-moving stream he’d been following. It appealed to him, and he dragged himself up it. This was harder than he remembered. Once he was high enough, he draped himself across a large branch and settled in for the night.

Finicky Friday

Healthy Stuffed Chicken Breasts


Ingredients
1  chicken breast
1 oz mozzarella cheese low fat, 28 g
1  artichoke heart from a can
1 tsp sun-dried tomatoes chopped
5 large basil leaves
1 clove garlic
1/4 tsp curry powder
1/4 tsp paprika
1 pinch pepper to taste

Servings: 1Carbs Per Serving: 6gPrep Time: 5 minutes





Instructions
Brine the chicken breast in salt water 
Preheat the oven to 365 F (185 C)
Cut the chicken breast almost halfway through with a sharp knife
Chop up the mozzarella, artichoke, basil, tomato and garlic. Mix to combine and stuff it into the cut chicken breast
Use a few toothpicks to close the chicken breast around the stuffing
Place the chicken breast on a baking sheet or on aluminum foil, and season it with pepper, curry powder, and paprika.
Bake for 21 minutes (depending on the size of the chicken breast)
Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving, and you're done!

Tuesday Teaser

Healthy Stuffed Chicken Breasts


Ingredients
1  chicken breast
1 oz mozzarella cheese low fat, 28 g
1  artichoke heart from a can
1 tsp sun-dried tomatoes chopped
5 large basil leaves
1 clove garlic
1/4 tsp curry powder
1/4 tsp paprika
1 pinch pepper to taste

Servings: 1Carbs Per Serving: 6gPrep Time: 5 minutes





Instructions
Brine the chicken breast in salt water 
Preheat the oven to 365 F (185 C)
Cut the chicken breast almost halfway through with a sharp knife
Chop up the mozzarella, artichoke, basil, tomato and garlic. Mix to combine and stuff it into the cut chicken breast
Use a few toothpicks to close the chicken breast around the stuffing
Place the chicken breast on a baking sheet or on aluminum foil, and season it with pepper, curry powder, and paprika.
Bake for 21 minutes (depending on the size of the chicken breast)
Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving, and you're done!

Tuesday Teaser - Fangs and Fur

Fangs and Fur is in the 2nd round of edits! I also have a cover. :) Not sure when I'll release this, but hopefully early March. We'll still in chapter two. 

Alvin ducked into the bathroom and grabbed his shaving kit, trying to blank his mind. The more he thought about it, the more his cat demanded to take over. Hurrying back to the bedroom, he dumped the kit into his suitcase, grabbed it, and strode back to living area where Dylan waited. “I’m ready.”“Good.” Alvin followed Dylan to the black SUV sitting in his driveway. Dylan opened the back, and Alvin tossed his suitcase inside. He was surprised to see the empty passenger seat.“Grady isn’t coming?”“No. The Shifter Council asked that he didn’t.” Dylan opened the driver’s door and climbed inside. Alvin hopped inside too and watched as Dylan programmed the GPS. Once he buckled up, they pulled out of the driveway. “Why?”“Hogan might be dead, but some of his betas and deltas are not. They were worried about how Grady would react if he saw them.”But not me, I take it. “What happened to Hogan? How did he die?”Dylan tapped his finger on the steering wheel as he drove. “I don’t know. Honestly, I’m not sure we’ll ever find out, but he’s dead, and that’s all that I care about. The threat is gone.”Alvin stayed silent as they drove through their jamboree lands, then onto the highway. They took the exit to the interstate. Yes, Hogan might be dead and the threat to Cade gone, but the damage Hogan left in his wake wouldn’t be as easily dismissed.Almost as if sensing Alvin didn’t want to talk, Dylan turned on the radio. Alvin was thankful. His emotions were all over the place, and he was worn out. Tired to the bone. Talking about what he and Bert had been through didn’t help. Instead, it was kept fresh. Well, fresher. Every punch, every kick, every heartbreaking scream circled in Alvin’s head, no matter how hard he tried not to think about it. The more agitated he became, the more his cat paced in his mind, fangs bared and hissing, wanting out. The urge to shift annoyed him like an itch he couldn’t reach. His skin tingled with the pressing need. But as badly as he wanted to lose himself in his cat, he didn’t dare. Human practicality was what was needed, not the predatory nature of his cat. Not yet, at least.About an hour into the drive, Alvin was fairly sure he had enough control to talk about Bert without wanting to rip something to pieces. “Do you know anything about the betas who beat Bert?” Dylan turned down the radio. “If you’re talking about the two in the video, one is dead and the other is missing.”Fuck. Missing? Dylan’s statement hit him like a sledgehammer to the chest. Then the threat wasn’t over, not to Bert. “Do you know who’s missing?”Alvin clutched the steering wheel. “Not really sure, but you can bet that’ll be one of the first things I ask when we get there. Whoever it was should have been contained. I promise you, the ones who did this will pay.”“Why would Grady be concerned? I mean, Hogan is dead. Like you said, the threat to Cade is nonexistent now.”Dylan jerked his gaze to Alvin. “Dude. Really?” Huffing, Dylan looked back at the road. “Actually, I’m glad you brought this up. I said we would talk, and since you seem calmer, we’re going to.” Well, hell. Maybe he should’ve kept his mouth shut.“Those assholes hurt Bert. No matter what went on before that, they hurt yourmate. You’re a member of this jamboree, and they beat your man. Forced you into an untenable situation, a situation you couldn’t win. Do you honestly believe Grady would let this go?”Alvin flinched. “But I—”“Tried to kidnap his mate, yes. Betrayed Grady’s trust, yes. Look, I’m not trying to be harsh, but those are the facts. On the other hand, greed wasn’t what motivated you to do such a thing. It was pure desperation on your part. You screwed up, Alvin, but after seeing that video… yeah.”“But—”“Your punishment was being stripped of your delta position, something I know you treasured. I won’t blow smoke up your ass either. Some members may turn against you. It isn’t going to be easy, but Grady is giving you a chance to redeem yourself. Meet him halfway.”Could he? Could he put the past behind him and move on?“I want to.”Dylan took his eyes off the road long enough to glance at Alvin. “Then let me give you a little advice. You have to find a way to forgive yourself first. You do that, and the rest will come.”Yeah, if only it was that easy.Instead of voicing his thoughts, Alvin stared out the window. After a while, Dylan pulled over and filled up. Once that was done, they were back on their way. It wouldn’t be much longer.Another hour or so passed.“We’re getting close,” Dylan said. “Good. I’m ready to be there.” They crossed the boundary lines, and Alvin looked around. Immediately he noticed how rutted the streets were, how trash littered the side of the road. The grass desperately needed cutting too. The farther into the territory they got, the more obvious it was just how bad things were. Businesses that were open stood in disrepair, with few cars in the parking lots. Many more were abandoned and boarded up. Things only worsened as they drove. The majority of the homes were shabby. Hell, they were little better than shacks. The surrounding land also looked unhealthy and uncared for.“Fuck.”Dylan sighed. “Yeah, it’s bad, isn’t it? According to the GPS, we should be nearing the jamboree house shortly.”Alvin shook his head. “Doesn’t look like anyone is going to greet us.” He understood things were chaotic, but still. Where were the patrols? Why was nobody watching the borders?“It was the same way when Grady and I came here. No way would anybody have gotten this far without several of our vehicles surrounding them. But, to be honest, I imagine the Council has its hands full and hasn’t had time to deal with the lack of security.”“I guess.” The few times he and Bert had managed to sneak off, he’d gotten the impression things were bad, but this was much worse than he thought.Dylan slowed, turned onto a gravel road, and passed several more shacks. Fuck, were people actually living in those? No way Grady would’ve allowed a jamboree member to reside in such a hovel. Or hell, even an animal. “This is just…. I have nothing. No words.” “Oh, it gets worse. Just wait.”Flabbergasted, Alvin dragged his gaze away from the desolation surrounded them and looked at Dylan. “How can anything be worse than this?”Dylan stopped in front of a residence. There were a couple of SUVs and a stretch limo parked in front. Dylan waved his hand. “Hogan’s jamboree house.”Alvin’s mouth fell open. “Fuck me. Really?”“Yeah.” Again, the neglect was painfully obvious, but what was more harrowing was the shroud of evilness hanging over the place.“It certainly shows how bad he let things get.” “I agree,” Dylan said. “Our jamboree house is old like this place, but it damn sure doesn’t have this sense of hopelessness surrounding it.”Sickened, Alvin took in the surroundings.Shrubs that still lived needed to be trimmed and watered, Hell, might as well pull them up and start over. Grass struggled to grow, and off to the side of the house a rusted-out truck stood on blocks. Broken limbs from nearby trees were scattered across the lawn. Shutters dangled off the windows, and the house itself needed several coats of paint. And a new roof. And, and….“It should be razed to the fucking ground.”The door to the jamboree house swung open, and a tall man stepped out. Even from inside the SUV, Alvin could feel his power.“Well, looks like the greeting committee awaits us. Shall we?” Dylan asked, opening his door. Alvin gulped. Whoever was standing on the porch was fucking intimidating and damn powerful. Alvin unbuckled. “Let’s get this over. I need to find Bert.” He stepped out and followed Dylan to where the stranger stood.“Gentlemen, I’m Councilman Rob Eagle. May I inquire as to who you are?”
Dylan stepped forward. “I’m Dylan Sandusky, beta to Alpha Grady Williams of the Moon Valley jamboree.” He gestured to Alvin. “This is Alvin Hall, also part of the Moon Valley jamboree. He’s Bert’s mate.”

Book being translated

Latest Translation Releases - no release date as yet


French Galley for Pure (this isn't the translated cover lol. I haven't seen that yet.)
The Gods: Book ThreeSequel to Perfect
Zygi Wyatt is an intimidating dom, but he yearns for love just like the next man. However, finding a partner who isn’t scared of his size is no easy task. The easygoing Mo seems like the answer to his prayers.
Love is the stuff of dreams. Ask the god Morpheus—he knows all about it. Mo wants Zygi in a forever kind of way, but he has to be sure of Zygi’s love before he claims him for his mate and reveals his true self.
Unfortunately, Zeus is growing increasingly unhappy with Morpheus, and Ares is determined to throw a monkey wrench into everything. Zygi and Mo will have to brave the wrath of the gods to make their dreams come true.







Italian Galley for Behind the Eight Ball (this isn't the translated cover lol. I haven't seen that yet.)
Fur, Fangs, and Felines: Book Two 
A cool morning, a yard full of birds, and a kitty on a mission. What more could a werecat want? Beta Heller Wirth has it all, except a mate—a shifter mate, that is. The last thing he wants is one of those dangerous humans who kill without remorse. Heller knows about that firsthand. So what does the goddess Bast do? She gives Heller exactly what he does not want—a human: business owner Lawson Dupre.
Lawson hasn’t a clue what just happened in his car detail shop. One minute a cute client is about to pass out, and then he perks up and starts flirting. Next thing, he runs out the door like the hounds of hell are after him. Learning that Heller is a werecat doesn’t freak out Lawson. He happens to be one of those rare humans who knows paranormals exists. He even lives with one. 
Watch the fur fly as Heller and Lawson battle hurt feelings, misguided beliefs, and a power shift in Heller’s clowder.

Finicky Friday - Maple Salmon

Maple Salmon
Prep 10 m
Cook 20 m
Ready In 1 h

Ingredients
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pound salmon


Directions
In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, garlic salt, and pepper.
Place salmon in a shallow glass baking dish, and coat with the maple syrup mixture. Cover the dish, and marinate salmon in the refrigerator 30 minutes, turning once.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, and bake salmon uncovered 20 minutes, or until easily flaked with a fork.


~Tip: Aluminum foil can be used to keep food moist, cook it evenly, and make clean-up easier.


Nutrition Facts
Per Serving: 265 calories 
12.4 g fat
14.1 g carbohydrates 
23.2 g protein 
67 mg cholesterol 

633mg sodium 

Tuesday Teaser - Fangs and Fur

~Continued from Chapter Two


Alvin nodded weakly as he stared at the soda can, slowing turning it in his hands. “Yeah. Outside of you scaring several years off my life, I’m fine.” Alvin sipped more soda. “You, ah, alarmed me with how you acted at the door.” Now, that was an understatement if there ever was one.Dylan sighed. “If I could kick my own ass, I would. I was pissed, yes. But that wasn’t aimed at you.”Alvin tore his gaze away from his drink and glanced at Dylan. “I’d understand if you were.”“And we will talk about that. But for right now, go pack enough clothes for a few days. We’re going to Alpha Hogan’s jamboree. The Shifter Council cleared it.”“Is Hogan still Alpha there?”“No.”“Thank the goddess. I’m not going to lie. If I see him, I’m not sure I can control my cat. All I think about is killing him.” Alvin stood. His legs still felt like wet noodles, but other than that, he was pretty steady. Dylan hopped up too. Alvin walked back to his bedroom with Dylan hot on his heels.“That’s not going to be a problem, trust me,” Dylan muttered from behind Alvin. “If you say so. Just know I did warn you.” Alvin flipped on the light in his bedroom. “And fuck if I want to talk about that asshole anyway. Tell me about Bert, would you?”Dylan leaned against the doorframe. “While you’re packing, I’ll explain.”“Okay.” Alvin didn’t miss the gentle hint. He pulled a suitcase from his closet, tossed it on his bed, and opened it. “What’s going on?”Dylan moved away from the doorframe and sat on the bed. “My information is still pretty sketchy. As you know, there was a complaint filed against Hogan. Two Council members, along with a couple of enforcers, were dispatched to speak to him.”Alvin threw clothes in the suitcase, not really paying attention to what he grabbed. “And?”“Not really sure how or why Enforcer Carrick stumbled across Bert, but he did. From what I can gather, council members were waiting to speak to Alpha Hogan, and Carrick apparently was having himself a little looksee around. Let’s just say he was highly disturbed at what he found. Shit got real, Hogan flipped the fuck out, and there was a fight.”Alvin paused. He really didn’t give a fuck about Hogan. What he wanted to know was about Bert. “And Bert? Is… is he okay?” “He was badly injured, and he needs you. He…. I’m sorry. They broke his leg.”Alvin cringed as he tossed more clothes into the suitcase. “It was his kneecap, actually.” Alvin knew because he watched every soul-sucking, terrifying moment of them breaking it. And wept shamelessly… after he threw up.Dylan frowned. “How do you… oh. That video. Right. I don’t want you reliving it, so moving along here. Hogan is dead.”Alvin clutched the pair of jeans he held. “Good,” he said viciously. “I hope he died slowly. Painfully. Screaming in agony like Bert did. I fucking hope the pain he felt was half as bad as what he put my mate through.”“I’m right there with you on that.” Dylan narrowed his eyes, studying Alvin. Chills ran up Alvin’s back. “What?”“There’s something else I need to tell you, and I need you to remain calm.”Oh fuck, nothing ever good came from a sentence like that. Alvin dropped the jeans he held in the suitcase and braced himself. “What?”“No easy way to say this, so here goes.” Dylan took a deep breath. “Bert shifted and ran off.”Bert’s cat roared, the heartbreaking sound echoing across Bert’s mind. His skin prickled, and his muscles spasmed. Gasping, he swayed. Bert shifted? Before he received treatment? Oh goddess, if he had…. Dylan grabbed him. “Easy, easy. Don’t shift. I know your cat wants out, but now is not the time.”He closed his eyes, fighting his cat. Want out? His cat didn’t just want out, he was demanding to be set free. The urge to shift and raced toward Hogan’s lands was almost more than he could fight off. Just how terrified and in pain had Bert been to do something like that?“Alvin? Come on buddy, stay in control. Don’t do some stupid.”Panting, Alvin rested his head against Dylan’s shoulder. Control. Yes, he had to remain in control. The goddess only knew he had done enough stupid stuff lately. He didn’t dare add to it. His cat screamed in anger, but Alvin managed to talk him down. The big cat was going to be needed soon enough, especially if they had to track Bert.Gulping, Alvin opened his eyes and leaned back. “I’m okay. I’m under control.”Dylan grasped Alvin by the shoulders and stared into Alvin’s eyes. “Are you sure?”“I’m sure. My cat isn’t happy, but I made him understand he’s going to be needed soon enough.”“Good. I’m sorry, Alvin.” Dylan squeezed Alvin’s shoulders then released him. “I know it seems like I’m throwing one bad thing after another at you, but this wasn’t something I wanted to tell you while we were on the road.”“No, that would have been the worst idea ever.”“Yeah, last thing I need is for a furious jaguar ripping the door off my vehicle.”Alvin snorted, but it could’ve very well come down to that. Dylan was right in telling him now instead of in the vehicle. But shit, he couldn’t take one more bad thing.“Are you ready? The sooner we get out of here—”“The sooner I can get to Bert. Gotcha. Let me grab some stuff from the bathroom and—”“Um, just a second.” Dylan stood and rested his hand on Alvin’s shoulder. Oh sweet fuck, what now? “We saw the video,” Dylan said.Alvin swayed. How? It was sent to him.“Hey! Hey, now. I’m not trying to mess you up by telling you that.”“H-how?” Alvin wanted that damn video erased. He turned from Dylan and hunched into himself. No one should be allowed to see the pain and terror Bert endured.“Enforcer Carrick found it.” Dylan ran his hand up and down Alvin’s back. “He wanted us to know… to know what Bert went through so we’d understand why you were driven to try and kidnap Cade.”“That… that was private.” Alvin wanted to scream. Would the horror never fucking end? “Bert wouldn’t want anyone to see him so... so….” Broken. Shamed. Desperate. Hurting.“He’s a brave man, Alvin. Don’t for a minute think we thought less of him because he broke under the pain. How could he not? He was a delta trying to defend himself against an Alpha and two betas. He didn’t stand a chance. I understand. We all do. I can honestly say if I’d been in your place, I don’t know what that would’ve driven me to do. We understand, Alvin.”Alvin started shaking. Dylan reeled him in and hugged him tightly. “T-thank you,” Alvin croaked.“We’ll get through this. That’s all the bad news, I promise. Now, go get whatever else you need, and let’s go.” Dylan stepped back. “I’ll be in the living area. Keep in mind it’s going to take us a of couple hours to get there.”
“Yeah. Okay. Yeah.” He ran a hand through his hair, desperately trying to calm himself again. Fucking never-ending nightmare. “I’ll be right back.” 

Finicky Friday - Slow-Cooker Garlic-Parmesan Chicken

Slow-Cooker Garlic-Parmesan Chicken
Link: http://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a46066/slow-cooker-garlic-parmesan-chicken-recipe/





TOTAL TIME: 4:15PREP: 0:SERVES: 4


INGREDIENTS
4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 lb. bone-in chicken thighs
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 lb. baby red potatoes, quartered
2 tbsp. butter
5 cloves Garlic, Chopped
2 tbsp. freshly chopped thyme
Freshly chopped parsley, for serving
2 tbsp. Freshly Chopped Parsley
2 tbsp. freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving


DIRECTIONS
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons oil. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sear until golden, 3 to 4 minutes, then flip and sear 3 minutes more.
Meanwhile, in a 6-quart slow-cooker, toss potatoes with remaining 2 tablespoons oil, butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, and Parmesan and season generously with salt and pepper. Add chicken to slow cooker and toss gently, then cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours, until potatoes are tender and chicken is fully cooked. 
Garnish with Parmesan and parsley and serve.

Tuesday Teaser - Fangs and Fur

Okay, so the book is finished and being proofed. I'll be sending it to the editor in a few days. Sarah York is working on the cover too! Won't be long now!



Chapter TwoAlvin hurried home, shame dogging his every step. Several members smiled in his direction, but that wouldn’t last—not once word got out. He rushed up the steps to his cottage and let himself inside. Collapsing on the couch, he rubbed his hands over his face and heaved a deep breath. What a fucking debacle, one that he brought all on himself. In retrospect, he wished he’d told his Alpha he was being blackmailed by Alpha Hogan. Leaning back, he stared at the ceiling, replaying Grady and Dylan’s words in his head. “Dammit, man, you should’ve come to me. What have I done to make any of you think I wouldn’t back you?” Dylan cleared his throat. “You’ve been pretty clear on the issue of mates.” “In conjunction with me,” Grady snapped. “I made it clear what I wanted. I never said my feelings applied to anybody else! I sat right here not long ago and told you I’d asked Alpha Wayne for permission for my jamboree to visit his so my members could maybe find mates.” “Yes, you told me. Did you tell the members?”Alvin squeezed his eyes shut. The thing was, Grady hadn’t. Alvin honestly believed he wouldn’t receive help from Grady. And shame on him for thinking that of his Alpha. Never once had Grady failed his jamboree in any form. But the damn issues of mates—Grady had made it painfully clear he didn’t believe in love, that it was a fool’s pursuit. If only he’d known Grady had changed his stance, then maybe… no. No excuses. Alvin was in the wrong. He’d committed an unpardonable sin by trying to kidnap Cade—the Alpha mate. That he hadn’t succeeded didn’t matter. He’d been desperate and would’ve done anythingto stop the torture Bert was being put through. Even sacrifice honor. And it was all for nothing. The Shifter Council showed up at Alpha Hogan’s jamboree investigating a complaint, took over, and now Grady couldn’t retrieve Alvin’s mate like he promised since the Council was involved. A lone tear rolled down Alvin’s face. Was his mate okay? The driving need to know rode him hard. He should be there, be the one to comfort his mate. Instead he was stuck here being eaten alive with questions. Had Bert finally received the help he needed after being beaten so severely? Bert’s screams—Alvin shuddered. They’d haunt him for as long as he lived.Maybe it was fitting he didn’t know Bert’s condition, even if it was killing him. He deserved so much worse. Grady had been well within his right to kill him. Or even banish him. Instead, all Grady did was strip Alvin of his title of delta. He’d gotten off easy. Or maybe he hadn’t. Their jamboree was a tight community that would probably turn on him. He’d become an outsider. Untrustworthy. Without honor. Deceitful. And Bert. What was he going to do about his mate? Would Bert be accepted here? Fuck, would he be after word got out? Alvin knew beyond a shadow of a doubt he could never live in Bert’s jamboree. Maybe it would be better for them to leave both jamborees, but the thought of going rogue was terrifying. He would lose his home, his business. True Jaguars might be solitary animals who preferred to live and hunt alone, but shifters were different. They needed social interaction and pack-like connection. Most did not do well alone.But before he worried about where they would live, he had to first find out if Alpha Hogan would release Bert. Hell, was Hogan even still the Alpha? If Alvin ever got the chance, he’d kill Hogan, not only for what he did to his mate, but for forcing Alvin into a situation he couldn’t win. There was so much still unknown and uncertain. Restless, Alvin stood and wandered around his home. Should he call the Council and try to find out what was going on? Would they speak to him? Dylan was supposed to contact them, but Alvin couldn’t see Dylan getting in any rush. Evening came and went, and he heard nothing. Giving up, he went to bed knowing he wouldn’t sleep well.* * * *Morning came, and yup, he’d slept like shit. Alvin stumbled into the kitchen and make himself a cup of coffee. The day stretched out in front of him endlessly. After he ate, he got another cup. Maybe he should check in with Grady, but the thought made him cringe. Wandering the kitchen, he stopped by the windows, staring out at his garden at back. “I just need to know he’s—” Alvin jumped when someone started banging on his front door. “What now? And at this time of day. Dammit, it better not be someone here to give me shit.”He deserved it, of course, but he was in no state of mind to deal with it. Bert occupied his every spare thought.“Coming!” Alvin yelled to whoever was trying to beat his door down. He yanked it open, ready for anything. Or he thought he was. His mouth hit the ground when he saw who was his visitor. “Dylan? What—”Dylan stood in the front door, frowning mightily. “Get your shit and let’s go.”Alvin blinked in surprise, his heart pounding. Had Grady changed his mind about letting him stay? Was this it, then? “Go? Go where? Why? Did… did Grady…. Am I being kicked off the jamboree lands after all?”“What?” Dylan reared back in surprise, wiping the frown off his face. “Oh shit, no! I didn’t mean… fuck. Sorry about that. No, Grady hasn’t changed his mind.”“Um, okay….” Alvin scratched his head, still breathing hard from the fear Dylan’s words left behind. “Then why…. Where are we going?”“Rhett Carrick called Grady. He’s an enforcer from the Shifter Council. He’s the one who found Bert, and we need to go. Bert is…. I’m sorry, Alvin. He’s—”Coldness washed through Alvin. Oh fuck, oh fuck. Bert couldn’t be…. Surely he would’ve felt something if…. His stomach rolled ominously, and saliva flooded his mouth. Swinging away from the door, Alvin darted toward the half bath. “Alvin!” A rush of footsteps sounded behind him, but he ignored them as he skittered into the bathroom. He hunched over the commode, losing everything he’d eaten. Please, no. Please, no!His stomach cramped, his body shook, and tears flooded his eyes. This can’t be happening!Dylan paused at the door. “Son of a… aw, dammit!”Alvin gagged and then threw up again.“Oh my fucking… I’m so sorry! Fuck me, I didn’t mean….” Dylan rested his hand on Alvin’s back. “Bert’s not dead or whatever the hell you’re thinking. Dammit, Alvin, are you listening to me?”Bert wasn’t dead? Alvin gagged one last time as he fought his body’s horrifying response to what he thought Dylan had been telling him.“I’m a fucking idiot. Major fucking idiot. Where are the….” Dylan cursed softly. “Oh, to hell with it.”Alvin heard running water.“Here!” Dylan stuck a wet cloth in front of Alvin’s face. Shakily, he climbed to his feet and flushed the commode. Alvin barely glanced at what he held as he wiped his face. The coolness against his overheated skin helped settle his stomach, along with Dylan’s words. Trembling, he staggered to the sink and rinsed his mouth. Glancing in the mirror, he noticed the hand towel was gone. Alvin realized he was holding it.“I couldn’t find any washcloths, so I just grabbed the first thing I saw.” Dylan backed out the bathroom. “Fuck man, I’m sorry. Do you want something to drink? Of course you do. Look, you sit down, and I’ll raid your kitchen. Be right back.” Dylan darted off.Alvin left the bathroom and collapsed on the couch, leaning his head against the back. Scrubbing his hands across his face, he tried to stop his body from shaking so violently. Fucking hell. He’d honestly thought Dylan was going to tell him… yeah. Alvin’s life had tilted on its axis when he thought Bert was dead.“Here you go.” Dylan stuck the open can of soda in front of Alvin. “Sip that.”“Thank you.” Alvin sat up, took the can, and gratefully sipped.
Dylan collapsed next to Alvin. “Well, I guess if there’s any question of whether or not Bert is truly your mate, that answered it. I’m really sorry. Are you okay?”